Violent Crime on the Rise

After dipping to lows 2 years ago, violent crime numbers in Columbus started rising last year - a trend which is continuing into 2006.
By WTVN Newsroom
So far this year, Columbus Police Sergeant Michael Woods says the city has recorded a 7% rise in homicides, 22% more aggravated assaults, an 8% increase in robberies, and a 12% rise in sexual abuse-related crimes compared to the same period in 2005. While there is no blanket explanation for the rise, many of these figures mirror national rates, says Sgt. Woods - adding that is usually the case when it comes to the "peaks and valleys" in the nationwide numbers. However, we're at a bit of a disadvantage believes Woods, since unlike some cities Columbus continues to grow in population.

In some cities, police say attention and resources diverted to homeland security are taking the focus away from responding to local crime - in Columbus, Sgt. Woods does not believe that's the case, but he adds there are areas of the city that don't have enough officers to patrol the streets and investigate violent crimes.
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